Family Dentistry Palm Beach Gardens

Oral Hygene

Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small strip of toothpaste, unless the child is under the age of 3. If a child is younger then the age of 3, parents should clean their teeth with just a smear (½ pea size) of toothpaste on the toothbrush.

When you brush, move the toothbrush in small circular motions to reach food particles that may be under the gum line. Hold the toothbrush at an angle and brush slowly and carefully, covering all surfaces: fronts, backs and tops and don’t forget to brush your tongue. It will take several minutes to thoroughly brush your teeth.

For areas between the teeth that a toothbrush can’t reach, dental floss is used to remove food particles and plaque. Dental floss is a thin thread of waxed nylon that is used to reach below the gum line and clean between the teeth. Floss at night to make sure your teeth are squeaky clean before you go to bed. When you first begin flossing, your gums may bleed a little. For boys and girls who don’t know how to write in cursive they do not have the manual dexterity to floss on their own, a parents help will be recommended. If you have any questions please ask us at your next appointment.